white house press secretary jay carney followed up. >> this is not only an issue of helping our climate and environment but a matter of our national security >> reporter: some top republicans appear more focused on spending in washington. >> we should start with spending and debt because if we don't get a handle on that nothing else matters. >> reporter: house republicans are expected to vote wednesday on a three- month extension of the debt ceiling - but with a stipulation the senate passes a budget in the next few months. the white house says it's ready to work towards something lasting. >> what we support is a long-term raising of the debt ceiling so that we don't have any doubt or uncertainty for businesses or the global economy about the simple proposition that the united states always pays its bills >> reporter: also on the president's radar in the next four years- comprehensive immigration reform. and in the aftermath of the newtown, connecticut school schooting - a push for congress to pass tighter gun control laws. in washington, i'm tory dunnan. >> pam: the california state un